A common childhood disorder is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. This disorder usually begins to manifest before the age of 7, but can remain undiagnosed well into adulthood, notes the Mayo Clinic website. For children who go undiagnosed, but have ADHD, the consequences can be more problematic. These children will be more likely to develop depression in addition to their undiagnosed ADHD.
Basics
Children who have ADHD may develop depression as a comorbid or co-occurring disorder because of the constant frustrations and setbacks associated with ADHD. While the behaviors of ADHD, inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, do not really cause depression they may increase the chances that depression will manifest. The Mayo Clinic notes that depression occurs at high rates among children with ADHD.
Causes
The causes of ADHD in children are not fully known, according to TeensHealth.org, but it is believed to be affected by the neurotransmitter levels in the brain. Depression is also affected by the level of neurotransmitters in the brain and can be triggered by stressful or traumatic life events, such as the onset of ADHD, or the failures associated with ADHD.
Treatment
When a child has both symptoms of ADHD and depression treatment can focus on both mental health disorders at the same time. The use of medications in the treatment process will have to take into consideration possible drug interactions if medication is going to be used to treat both disorders. Also, psychotherapy will focus on cognitive-behavioral techniques that will help the child learn positive ways of thinking about himself and new skills to deal with the negative effects of ADHD and depression. Parent training might be offered by therapists so that the parents can learn how to deal with the manifestations of depression and ADHD in the home. Family counseling is often used to help improve communication and solve parent-child conflicts, reports TeensHealth.org.
Considerations
Physical activity can improve the symptoms of ADHD and depression. According to HelpGuide.org, exercise allows a child to use up some of her excess energy, improve her concentration and reduce her depression. Children with ADHD and depression should be encouraged to engage in some sort of regular physical activity that they enjoy and that builds their confidence. Try getting the child involved in sports such as basketball, hockey, martial arts or yoga, suggests HelpGuide.org.
Warning
When children have ADHD and depression it is important to watch for signs of self harm or suicide. Children may try to cut themselves, abuse drugs or alcohol and engage in other high-risk behaviors. Signs of suicide include talking about death and suicide, saying he would be better off dead, talking about how no one would miss him, giving important things away, saying goodbye, getting new friends and isolating himself. If you suspect your child is hurting himself or contemplating suicide, talk to his therapist or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.
